Maipo Valley Wine Regions Maipo Valley Maipo Valley Wine Maipo Valley is one of Chile's most important wine-producing regions. Located just south of the capital, Santiago, Maipo Valley is home to some of the country's most prestigious wines. It is often described as the 'Bordeaux of South America', and rich, fruit-driven Cabernet Sauvignon is undoubtedly its most celebrated wine style. Maipo is at the very northern end of Chile's extensive Central Valley, running from just north of the Rapel Valley up to where the countryside begins to give way to houses and roads in the southern suburbs of Santiago. The Coastal Range separates the area from the Pacific coast, and on the eastern side, the Andes Mountains rise suddenly and dramatically, separating Maipo from the Argentinean region of Mendoza . Tradition meets modernity © Matt Wilson/Wines of Chile The Maipo Valley is the home of viticulture in Chile. The first vines were planted around Santiago at the city's birth in the 1540s, but it wasn't until the 1800s that viticulture began to expand significantly, as an indirect result of entrepreneurial Chileans growing rich from the mineral wealth found in the Atacama Desert to the north.

It became fashionable for these wealthy individuals to travel to France, and they inevitably returned home with vines to plant in their new, French-influenced wine estates. The vineyards of Cousino Macul, Concha Y Toro and Santa Rita were developed during this period, and they remain today important names in the Chilean wine industry. The region can be roughly separated into three broad areas: Alto Maipo, Central Maipo and Maipo Bajo. The vineyards of Alto Maipo (or Upper Maipo) run along the eastern edge of the Andes Mountains, where they benefit from altitudes of 1300-2500ft (400-760m) above sea level. At this height, warm sun during the day is followed by colder nights, which slow ripening. This extends the growing season , leading to grapes with a balance of ripeness and acidity . Alto Maipo's colluvial soils (those brought down from the mountains over time by gravity as opposed to rivers) are rocky and free-draining and are considered excellent for viticulture: vines have to work harder for water in the ground and so put their energy into producing smaller berries with a high concentration of sugars and acids.

Alto Maipo, which encompasses the sub-regions of Puente Alto and Pirque , is the most prestigious of Maipo's viticultural areas. It is here that the vineyards of Don Melchor, Almaviva and Vinedo Chadwick can be found along the banks of the Maipo River and among the houses and buildings of Santiago itself. Central Maipo (sometimes called Maipo Medio) is the lower-lying ground just to the west of Alto Maipo, surrounding the towns of Buin and Paine. The climate here is slightly warmer than in Alto Maipo, and the soils are slightly more clay-based and fertile, leading to a slightly less-refined style of wine. Cabernet Sauvignon is still the most-grown grape variety, but there are also substantial plantings of Carmenere vines, as the warmer climate is well suited to this iconic Chilean grape variety. Maipo Bajo (or lower Maipo) centers on the towns of Isla de Maipo and Talagante . The wine industry here is more concerned with winemaking than viticulture, and while there are a few vineyards, there are many wineries.

Undurraga and De Martino are just two of the names that can be found in this part of Chile, making wines with grapes from all over the country. Some viticulture takes place here near the river, where cool breezes create mesoclimates suitable for growing white-wine varieties, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon. Annual rainfall in Maipo is very low and the climate is both warm and dry, so the arrival of technological advances in the 1980s brought an element of consistency to winemaking here. Drip irrigation gives viticulturists a weapon against extended dry spells, while stainless-steel tanks and oak barrels allow controlled fermentation and quality ageing. Along with Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere, a wide range of grape varieties are planted in the Maipo Valley including Merlot , Syrah , Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc . Last updated 30-Apr-2014 Wine regions in Chile Elqui & Limarí Valley Five hundred kilometers from Santiago, the Elqui Valley forms the northern borderline of Chile´s wine regions. Climate conditions for growing wine are excellent: hot, a bit windy and dry, with only 130 mm rainfall yearly.

An integrated irrigation system (big water tanks being connected by canals with one another) and nutrient-rich, water-storing and heavy soils provide harvests of ripe and sweet grapes that are used in the pisco production, a brandy considered as Chile´s national drink. Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenère, Chardonnay and some Syrah are cultivated. The wineries Falernia and Cavas del Valle are open to visitors. Cavas del Valle is one of the smallest wineries in Chile and handcrafts organic wine in a very caring way. Valle del Elqui is one of Chile´s most beautiful natural areas. The fertile valley divides a semiarid mountain range, the “precordillera” of the region, reminding a desert. Due to very low rainfall, the sky is clear all year through. Several international astronomy associations operate observatories in this region, such as the one on top of the mountain Tololo, in La Silla, or on top of the Pachón. The latter maintains a Gemini-Telescope of 4,1 m and is one of the most important observatories in the southern hemisphere.

In Vicuña, a small village 50 km from La Serena into the valley, Gabriela Mistral was born, a Chilean poet and nobel prize winner. A museum and a school in which she tought is dedicated to her and can be visited. In the 1990s, the nearby river valley Limarí was discovered for the cultivation of primary grape varieties. A vine acreage of 1700 hectares arose from similar climate and soil conditions, almost half of it being cultivated by Cabernet Sauvignon. As in the Elqui Valley, a lot of archaelogical records were found in the Limarí Valley. In the heritage protected site Pichasca, one can marvel at fossil records of the rain forest. The National Park Fray Jorge is a beautiful place, owing its name to the Spanish Franciscan who discovered and described the region in the 17th century. The principal factors that typify the region concern its humid micro-climate moisterized by the coastal fog, and a rain forest with species from prehistoric times in the middle of the semi-desert. Wine tourism in the Limarí Valley is still in the fledging stages.

Only the wineries of Casa Tamaya and Agua Tierra are open to visitors. Aconcagua Valley A hundred kilometers north of Santiago the Aconcagua river flows through the Central Valley from east to west. The river rises near the mountain of the same name, an almost 7000 m high Andean peak, and flows into the Pacific, close to Valparaíso. The Mediterranean climate of the Aconcagua Valley provides hot days and cool humid nights – ideal conditions for viticulture. Its soils are sandy and rocky, rich in minerals and in organic river sediments. Since 1870, wine has been cultivated in the region. Next to a couple of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the Syrah of Viña Errázuriz has become a successful wine. Though only a bit more than ten percent of the vine acreage are cultivated by Syrah, it is considered as being a characteristic wine of the Aconcagua Valley.

A great variety of wine cellars and small wineries are open to visitors: the technically high standard facilities of Viña Errázuriz and in contrast the old handicraft machines of Viña Sánchez de Loria that are used for producing fortified wine to this day. Lately, a new tourism project was iniciated providing an opportunity to travel from the Aconcagua Valley via the international mountainpass to the Argentine wine region of Mendoza. In addition to the wineries, there are many more tourist attractions in the Aconcagua Valley. Portillo in the Andean mountains is a real paradise for skiers, the 6962 high mountain Aconcagua can be climbed by mountaineers, and Laguna del Inca is ideal for canoo and kayak fans. Some wineries of Viña San Esteban contain ancient pre-Columbian petroglyphs. Casablanca Valley Lying in between the Andes and coastal mountain range, the rather cooler Casablanca Valley is located about 60 km from Santiago at the mainroad to the Pacific. The climate is strongly influenced by the sea, providing constant humid air due to a heavy morning fog.

Soils are natural, clayey and rich in minerals of the Andean snowmelt. The cooler climate make Casablanca ideal for cultivating white grapes. Almost three fourth of the acreage is Chardonnay. Furthermore, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Merlot are characteristic for the Casablanca Valley. Riesling, that is rarely found in Chile, is cultivated amounting to an acreage of 4.000 hectares. It was first recognized as a special place to cultivate wine in the early 1980s when the oenologist Pablo Morandé compared the clayey soils and humid coast climate to the conditions of California that he was familiar with. In addition to the production of quality export wines, there are first initiatives to produce organic wine. Since many tourists take the wine route 68 from Santiago to Valparaíso, wine tourism has established quickly in the Casablanca Valley. wineries such as Morandé, Concha and Toro, Santa Emiliana or Santa Carolina are open to visitors, offering wine tastings, traditional coach tours, or lunch in selected gourmet restaurants. The wine restaurant “House of Morandé” is a must for all gourmets.

Top chefs prepare unforgettable creations of crabmeat, game or garlic from Chiloé. The wine cellar of the winery Indómita, located on top of one of the coastal mountains, reminds on an ancient wine castle, providing a lovely view to the green wineries of the Casablanca Valley. A fresh breeze coming from the Pacific and the huge letters forming the emblem “Viña Indómita”, will make the visitor feel like being in Hollywood. However, small innovative bodegas and romantic wine cellars pay great attention to improving their services. At the winery Puro Caballo, Chilean customs and traditions are preserved; one can marvel at the skills of the Chilean Huasos and their riding horses. The restaurant of Viñas Casas del Bosque of the former Hacienda Santa Rosa in Casablanca provides an excellent opportunity to pair your wine discoveries with an outstanding menu. The “Ruta Aéreo del Vino” is the latest attraction of Chilean wine tourism. A private airplane flies over the wineries of the Casablanca Valley and Maipo Valley, stopping for lunch and wine tastings at famous wineries.

San Antonio Valley Close by to the seaport San Antonio and one hour drive to Santiago, San Antonio is a new discovery of Chile´s wine regions with exciting potential. For ten years and an ever increasing success, wines are being produced in the Valley such as exclusive Sauvignon Blancs, Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Soils are generally clay-loam and dry. Climatic conditions are strongly influenced by the ocean. The first wineries established in the San Antonia Valley were Matetic, Garcés Silva and Casa Marín. Looking for ways to differentiate their wines, the wineries contribute to an outstanding characteristic wine production of this region. That is how the first Syrah in a humid-cool climate and the best Pinot Gris of Chile was produced. Appealing creations such as the Merlot-Malbec of Matecic come from the San Antonio Valley. Since 2002, this region is one of several recognized wine-producing areas with the official seal D.O. (Denominación de Origen). For wine tourists, this wine region is yet to be developed. There isn´t a wine route but there are some interesting offers for those with an eye for the extraordinary.

Viña Matetic with its own restaurant and guest house offers a visitor tour through the wineries. Maipo Valley Close to the capital Santiago, the Maipo Valley is the birthplace of Chile´s wine production. To this day, it is the best known wine region of Chile. The Maipo Valley produces the most successful export wines in the country and features the most important dates of viticultural tradition: in 1555, when the first wine production of Chile was officially recognized and certificated; the introduction of French grape varieties from 1851 to 1994; and eventually the rediscovery of the long mistaken Carmenére grape variety. The climate in the Maipo Valley is stabil with hot dry summers and short mild winters of not more than 450 mm rainfall. There are extreme differences in day and night temperatures with hot days and cool nights. High in the hills, there is morning frost that provides ideal conditions for the sun-loving red wine grapes.

A total acreage of 10.000 hectares are cultivated by 8.000 hectares of red varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenére, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Malbec; whereas the remaining 2.000 hectares are cultivated by traditional white varieties, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillón. The natural soils are rich in minerals, sandy-clayey and highly permeable. There is a traditional irrigation system of canals using the waters of the Andean snowmelt. The drip-irrigation method is not very common. Located well protected in between the Andes and coastal mountain range, the Valley is crossed by the two major rivers Maipo and Mapocho. Depending on climate, soil composition and altitude, the Maipo wine region is sub-divided into three cultivation areas: Maipo Alto, Maipo Medio and Maipo Costa. The Valley of Maipo Medio (550 m a.s.l.) has the most sun, producing one of the smoothest and fruitiest red wines.

In the higher and cooler regions of Maipo Alto, more complex wines with well structured tannins are being produced. Close to the coastal mountain range with fresh winds, Maipo Costa produces wines of an elegant acid structure. Most of the country´s oldest wineries are based in the Maipo Valley, expanding more and more to other wine regions: Concha y Toro (the biggest wine cellar in Chile), Santa Rita, Cousiño Macul, Tarapacá, Carmen, Barón de Rothschild. The wineries of Antiyal and Pargua produce organic wines of good quality. A big advantage of the region is being close to Santiago with its many wine pubs, specialized wine stores and good restaurants. Cachapoal Valley About a hundred km south of Santiago, there is the Rapel Valley that centers two of the best-known and internationally recognized wine regions of Chile: the Cachapoal Valley criss-crossed by the Cachapoal River South of Rancagua, and the Colchagua Valley irrigated with Tinguiririca River water. Imbedded among hills of the coastal mountain range, there is the old colonial town of Santa Cruz (see below).

The region is characterized by a Mediterranean climate of the Chilean Central Valley, consisting of hot summers, mild winters and extreme differences in day and night temperatures. Regions with characteristic microclimates (depending on the proximity to the Pacific and the Andes) create favorable conditions for a number of grape varieties. Soils are natural, rich in minerals with sandy layers and lime-stone parts in places. The majority of the principal grape varieties grow here, such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Carmenére and Malbec). Particula rly successful had been the rather low-yielding and less cultivated varieties Merlot and Carmenére. The Cachapoal Valley, particularly Alto Cachapoal close to the coastal mountain range, have been the center of attention among French investors and wine lovers. Many famous winegrower families from Bordeaux, Alsace and the Loire region have either merged with long-established Chilean winemakers or have built up their own wineries to produce quality red wine of French character.

The wine route Alto Cachapoal is easily accessible and lined with many famous wineries, such as those of Altair, Morandé, Anakena, Misiones de Rengo, or Chateau Los Boldos. The famous red varieties (Merlot and Carmenére) are deeply concentrated, fruity and a bit sweet with rich flavors of chocolate and jelly. Close to Santiago, this wine region is of special interest for visitors who have little time but want to see more than the wineries within reach of Santiago. In the nearby Andes, there is a winter sports center and a number of beautiful nature protection areas. The natural hot springs of Cauquenes invite visitors to relax in their soothing waters. The former mining city of Sewell is accessible from the wine route. Cachapoal Maule Itata Valley One of Chile´s traditional winegrowing regions is located 400 km south of Santiago and 50 km east of Concepción. In recent years, winegrowers started to produce value wines of good quality next to the mass production of simple table wines. That is why an acreage of 10.000 hectares is cultivated by rustic grape varieties (país and moscatel).

In the past five years, an acreage of 1.000 hectares is cultivated by Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. The climate in the Itata Valley, that is crossed by the rivers Itata and Ñuble, tends to have cool and windy summer days and rainy winters. Soils are sandy and rich in minerals, promoting high-yielding varieties. Vast forests alternate with green wineries located on slopes between the Andes and coastal mountains. Since 2003, a government program tries to enhance wine tradition in this region. Shortly after Spanish conquest, wine was produced for the whole country in this region. Wine from Itata was considered as being the best of Chile. With the introduction of noble European vines and an intensive production in warmer regions, the Itata Valley fell into oblivion. Today, innovative winegrowers committed to quality give new impetus to the region, such as Casas de Giner, Viñedos del Larqui, Tierra y Fuego or Tierras de Arrau. Vintage is performed in two stages: white grapes are harvested from the end of February to mid March at the end of Chilean summer; red grapes are harvested from mid March to the end of April.

The traditional vintage festivity Vendimia is celebrated in the first week of April. Bio Bio Valley The Bio Bio Valley is situated some 500 km south of Santiago at the very southerly edge of viable grape growing. As in the neighboring Itata Valley the rustic grape varieties país and moscatel have been cultivated for centuries. To this day, a mass production of simple table wines is the basis of viticulture in the Bio Bio Valley. Building on experience acquired in Itata and Limarí, value wines are produced in a number of wineries. Throughout the whole year, it is quite cool and very windy with a rainfall of 1.100 mm. Soils are natural-sandy and stony, mineral and organic river sediments turn them into fertile and high-yielding land. These conditions are particularly favorable for the cultivation of noble grape varieties that need lengthy ripening periods and give great acidity and freshness to the wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Chardonnay. wineries that are committed to produce value white wines in this wine region are: Carpe Diem, Don Francisco or VinSu r.

Viña Canata, a traditional family run winery, boasts the world´s most southerly winery. Contact: Casa Chueca Ltda. I Franz Schubert + Kathrein Splett I Viña Andrea s/n - Sector Alto Lircay, Talca - Chile. E-Mail: casachueca@trekkingchile.com I Phone: + 56 71 197 00 96/7 I Fax: + 56 71 197 00 97 ©2005, Casa Chueca Ltda. All rights reserved. The responsibles of this site make all efforts to verify the information published, but cannot insure its accuracy. Maipo Valley | Pionero Travel Chile +– Itinerary Maipo Valley | Full Day You will be met at your hotel around 9:00 AM by a Pionero Travel bilingual guide and driver who will take you to the famous Maipo Valley. This Valley is considered to produce the finest red wines of Chile, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon.

This is the area in Chile that initiated the grand history of Chilean wine production, marked by the planting of the first and the finest French varieties by the Pioneer Silvestre Ochagavia, around 1840. After an approximate hour drive to the south, your first visit will be to the Almaviva Winery. In 1997, Baroness Philippine de Rothschild, Chairman of the Advisory Board of Baron Philippe de Rothschild SA, and Eduardo Guilisasti Tagle, Chairman of Viña Concha y Toro S.A., sealed a partnership agreement with a view to create an exceptional Franco-Chilean wine called Almaviva. Produced under the joint technical supervision of both partners, the first vintage achieved immediate international success upon its launch in 1998. Their wine is made from a blend of classic Bordeaux varieties, in which Cabernet Sauvignon predominates; Almaviva is the result of a felicitous encounter between two cultures. Chile offers its soil, its climate and its vineyards, while France contributes its winemaking savoir-faire and traditions. The result is an exceptionally elegant and complex wine.

Its launch was a major milestone in the development of Chilean wines, both in Chile and the international market.Once this visit has concluded, you will visit one of Chile’s most famous vineyards, Haras de Pirque where you will be welcomed by a bilingual guide who will lead you to a panoramic view of this vineyard. The property, today covering 600 hectares, gently ascends the lower slopes of a spur of the Andes Mountains. On these foothills, between 1992 and 1993, one hundred and twenty hectares of vineyards were planted, mainly with the reds Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Carmenère, and the whites Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Haras de Pirque’s name honors the country´s oldest thoroughbred breeding stud, founded in 1892. The stud has four extensively pedigreed stallions that have sired exceptional offspring. The farm’s success is reflected by a long succession of trophies won in the nation’s main horseracing events and an unrivaled leadership in all of the sport’s local categories: broodmare sires, stallions and general standings.

In addition, the haras is a prominent supplier for breeders and owners in South and North America, and maintains approximately 30 racehorses in the national competition circuit. Along with winegrowing and thoroughbred raising, Eduardo Matte (owner) gives free rein to his other passions, one of which is the collecting of old carriages, all drawn by suitably bred horses. The collection currently features 18 models with a stable of 30 horses that, together with four thoroughbred stallions and nearly two hundred mares and foals, trot and gallop through Haras de Pirque’s wide, green pastures. After this interesting visit you will be taken towards the coast to visit another famous Chilean vineyard, Santa Rita. Founded in 1880, Santa Rita promoted the introduction of the finest French vine stocks, which resulted in the production of wines using advanced techniques and in return rendering results far superior to those previously achieved. Since then Viña Santa Rita has established itself as a modern wine producing enterprise and at the same time, became an important cultural and political center. Before touring their installations, you will have a delicious and elegant lunch at the Doña Paula restaurant, located right inside the Santa Rita vineyard.

The combination of service and food result in a delectable meal. An extra bonus is that you will be lunching in a national monument where Bernardo O´Higgins, the general who achieved independence for Chile, and 120 soldiers once took shelter after fighting the Spanish crown forces. Return to your selected hotel in Santiago. End of our services. Details: Full day tour, Activity level easy, contents easy to technical, starts from Santiago, departs all year round. Includes: Zip Line Adventure at the Maipo Premium Winery | Pionero Travel Chile +– Itinerary Discover Chile’s Famous Maipo Valley | Full Day This morning, around 10:00 am, a Pionero Travel guide and driver will met you at your selected hotel and will take you to the famous Maipo Valley for an incredible day of wine tasting. The Maipo Valley is considered to produce the finest red wines of Chile, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. This is the area in which the grand history of Chilean wine production commenced, marked by the planting of the first and the finest French varieties by the Pioneer Silvestre Ochagavia, around 1840.

After approximately an hours drive to the south, you will arrive at La Montaña Winery. La Montaña (The Mountain), takes its name from one of the fundamental geomorphologic elements of this territory; located at 700 meters above the sea level, the enological objective of La Montaña is to produce high quality wines that reflect the environmental conditions of Maipo Alto. Founded in the year 2000 with a different concept linked to the search for elevation with significant presence of native flora. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cot, and Petit Verdot currently coexist in an initial 4 hectares of vineyards, which will be extended to 20 hectares. With a yield of 3,000 kilos per hectare, its enological objective is to produce high quality concentrated wines that reflect the environmental conditions of the zone through an assemblage that brings together the best attributes of each variety. The tour of this vineyard will begin with a 45 minutes trekking through an interesting trail, where you can find a wide variety of native flora and fauna . After the trail, an amazing canopy waits for the visitor.

The first launching platform is located in a spectacular cliff, from where you can see all the magnificence of this winery. The following four steps of the canopy complete a one-kilometer experience of excitement and thrill. After the adventure, a tasty Chilean style barbecue waits for the visitor, with the chance of tasting the remarkable and elegant La Montaña Wine. We will then drive back to Santiago. End of our services. Details: Full day tour, Activity level easy, contents easy to technical, starts from Santiago, departs all year round. Includes: Full spacious equipped van, Driver and Guide, Lunch with beverages, beer or wine. Entrance fees for: vineyards, wine tasting events. Not included in tour package Lodging and transfers prior to or after program. Personal items such as: telephone, alcoholic beverages not mentioned as included, gratuities. Chilean Wine Regions Chile Chilean Wine Chile is one of South America's most important wine-producing countries. Occupying a thin strip down the western coast of the continent, it is home to a wide range of terroirs , leading some commentators to describe the country as a "winegrower's paradise".

An equally wide range of wine styles are made here as a result, from the crisp, grassy Sauvignon Blanc of the Casablanca and Elqui valleys to the elegant, age-worthy Bordeaux Blends made in both Maipo Valley and Colchagua . Chile spans 2700 miles (4300km) of land running north-south between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains. The topography is very favorable to viticulture, and despite the fact that Chile is only 100 miles (160km) wide, most climatic variation in the wine-growing regions happens from east to west, rather than from north to south. The Pacific, with its Antarctic Humboldt Current, brings cooling breezes to coastal vineyards, while the sheltering presence of the Coastal mountain range makes Chile's Central Valley relatively warm and dry. Along the eastern edge of the country, in the foothills of the Andes, high altitudes and abundant meltwater rivers make for a different terroir again. Vines and valleys in Chile © Jonathan Reeve Chile has been a wine-producing country since the first European settlers arrived in the mid-16th century.

The original vines, to make sacramental wine, were brought by Catholic missionaries directly from Spain or via Peru or California . The Mission grape variety – known here as Pais – was widely planted during this time. It wasn't until the 19th Century that viticulture began to expand in Chile, mainly due to the spread of wealth associated with mining in the Atacama Desert. European trends started to infiltrate Santiago, and a wine-growing industry sprang up in the south of the city, around the Maipo Valley. Wine estates were built, with the styles of both wine and architecture heavily modeled on those of France. The estate vineyards of Concha y Toro , Cousino Macul and Santa Rita were established in this time. Throughout the 20th Century, Chilean wine was limited to a domestic market, but a push toward quality in the latter half of the century saw an uptake in the international market. Whereas Chilean winemakers had traditionally used tanks and barrels made of beech wood, in the 1980s stainless-steel tanks and oak barrels were introduced, marking the start of a technology-driven era.

The Chilean viticultural industry is often associated with consistent, good-value wines, but some world-class reds are also made, commanding high prices. Traditionally, this mantle has been filled by the Bordeaux varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot , but Pinot Noir from the cooler parts of Chile is beginning to make an impression. Like many New World countries, Chile has adopted a signature grape variety, Carmenere , once widely grown in Bordeaux. It was thought to be extinct following the European phylloxera outbreaks of the 19th century, but was rediscovered in Chile in the 1990s. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the forbidding barrier of the Andes on the other, Chile's vineyards have remained protected from phylloxera, allowing Carmenere to flourish. Last updated 18-Jun-2014 Maipo Valley Chile Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc - invino - up to 80% off retail prices 90 Points, The Tasting Panel Magazine 4 ★'s - Chilean Wine.com 89 Points, Stephen Tanzer REVIEWS A surprisingly modern-styled Cabernet from Chile.

A deep garnet color and aromas of blackberries and olives start you out. On the palate, there's a lovely mix of bright, black cherries, with undertones of coffee and dark chocolate. Very supple and round, the tannins are fine and the wine is nicely balanced. A very good value. -PM Silky and complex with plum and black raspberry fruit with hints of chocolate, coffee and subtle herbs; supple and juicy with spice and lovely structure; blanced, elegant and long. -TP Deep ruby nose: Blackberries and black cherries with a hint of eucalyptus and earth– lush and round, with plum and black fruit flavors. -Boris Gutierrez of Chilean-Wine.com Powerful aromas of cherry, dried flowers, licorice and mint, plus a touch of woodsmoke. Then broad and creamy on the palate, offering gently sweet red berry and cherry flavors and slow-mounting spiciness. The finish shows subtle sweetness and good tannic grip; this is still quite youthful but shows good promise.

-ST WHY WE'RE DRINKING IT ACIDITY If there was ever a region that was defined by the "the notoriety of a single grape" it is Maipo Chile with its defining grape, Cabernet Sauvignon. Maipo is a large valley that is Chile's most historic of wine growing regions, and with over half of it's wine real-estate rooted firmly in Cabernet, you can bet that the Chileans know a thing or two about the noble grape. Viña Peñalolén is known for their dedication to producing the best expression of fruit, therefore resulting in wines of pedigree and complexity. And even though the winery is family-owned with some modern techniques and style, the wine is still hand-harvested to find only most superior fruit for this single-vineyard wine. Blended from Cabernet Sauvignon, a touch of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this is a complex and velvety wine with a soft structure, spicy tannins, and a fruity finish. It's one that will stand up to grilled meat, time in the cellar, or a fireplace and a good book.

Anyway you choose it's what our Panel calls, "a definite great value!" Inside Fact: According to Wine Enthusiast Magazine, "Chile’s wine industry began more than 150 years ago in the Maipo Valley, and to this day Maipo is the source for the lion’s share of the country’s best wines." TASTING NOTES Made from a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc, this is a bright and juicy wine full of red fruits and spring accents with well polished and integrated tannins. THE STORY TO KNOW Peñalolén winery was founded by vineyard owner Ricardo Peña and his wife Isabel with the objective to produce unique Chilean wines, full of personality and verve. The wines are made by winemaker Jean-Pascal Lacaze, well respected for his deft hand in producing memorable wines. All grapes are grown and hand harvested with meticulous care to guarantee the integrity of the fruit, and picked early in the morning when the weather is coolest. Peñalolén is truly a family-owned, boutique winery committed to making wines of distinction.

PERFECT PAIRINGS 90 Points, The Tasting Panel Magazine 4 ★'s - Chilean Wine.com 89 Points, Stephen Tanzer REVIEWS A surprisingly modern-styled Cabernet from Chile. A deep garnet color and aromas of blackberries and olives start you out. On the palate, there's a lovely mix of bright, black cherries, with undertones of coffee and dark chocolate. Very supple and round, the tannins are fine and the wine is nicely balanced. A very good value. -PM Silky and complex with plum and black raspberry fruit with hints of chocolate, coffee and subtle herbs; supple and juicy with spice and lovely structure; blanced, elegant and long. -TP Deep ruby nose: Blackberries and black cherries with a hint of eucalyptus and earth– lush and round, with plum and black fruit flavors. -Boris Gutierrez of Chilean-Wine.com Powerful aromas of cherry, dried flowers, licorice and mint, plus a touch of woodsmoke. Then broad and creamy on the palate, offering gently sweet red berry and cherry flavors and slow-mounting spiciness.

The finish shows subtle sweetness and good tannic grip; this is still quite youthful but shows good promise. -ST ACIDITY If there was ever a region that was defined by the "the notoriety of a single grape" it is Maipo Chile with its defining grape, Cabernet Sauvignon. Maipo is a large valley that is Chile's most historic of wine growing regions, and with over half of it's wine real-estate rooted firmly in Cabernet, you can bet that the Chileans know a thing or two about the noble grape. Viña Peñalolén is known for their dedication to producing the best expression of fruit, therefore resulting in wines of pedigree and complexity. And even though the winery is family-owned with some modern techniques and style, the wine is still hand-harvested to find only most superior fruit for this single-vineyard wine. Blended from Cabernet Sauvignon, a touch of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this is a complex and velvety wine with a soft structure, spicy tannins, and a fruity finish. It's one that will stand up to grilled meat, time in the cellar, or a fireplace and a good book.

Anyway you choose it's what our Panel calls, "a definite great value!" Inside Fact: According to Wine Enthusiast Magazine, "Chile’s wine industry began more than 150 years ago in the Maipo Valley, and to this day Maipo is the source for the lion’s share of the country’s best wines." TASTING NOTES Made from a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc, this is a bright and juicy wine full of red fruits and spring accents with well polished and integrated tannins. THE STORY TO KNOW Peñalolén winery was founded by vineyard owner Ricardo Peña and his wife Isabel with the objective to produce unique Chilean wines, full of personality and verve. The wines are made by winemaker Jean-Pascal Lacaze, well respected for his deft hand in producing memorable wines. All grapes are grown and hand harvested with meticulous care to guarantee the integrity of the fruit, and picked early in the morning when the weather is coolest. Peñalolén is truly a family-owned, boutique winery committed to making wines of distinction.

PERFECT PAIRINGS Wine regions may lose up to 73% of land by 2050 - Decanter Decanter 0shares 0shares A new study released this week by researchers at the University of Texas suggests that areas suitable for viticulture will decrease between 25% and 73% in major wine producing regions by 2050 – directly impacting countless fine wine regions across the globe. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, is the first to combine impact of global warming on wine regions with wider environmental concerns – through things such as increased irrigation creating potential freshwater conservation issues. ‘Vineyards have long-lasting effects on habitat quality and may significantly impact freshwater resources,’ reads the study, going on to look at potential impact using 17 climate models to estimate changes in suitability for viticulture. By 2050, the study suggests that suitable grape growing areas in Mediterranean Europe could drop by 68%, and in parts of Australia by 73%.

Existing premium wine-growing regions in Chile – Maipo, Cachapoal and Colchagua – will be equally hard hit as the strain on the water resources in the country is already high, with 95% of the area currently used for vine growing already under water stress, the highest of any of the Mediterranean-climate wine-growing region. Maipo Valley is expected to see 20% less rainfall by 2050. New Zealand’s suitable area, in contrast, will more than double by 2050, as will parts of northern Europe. In North America, areas due to become more suitable for wine growing include existing national parks such as Yellowstone, or Yukon Territory in Canada, leading to potential conservation issues. Equally in China, some of the land likely to become most suitable for high-quality viticulture over the next few decades is currently in the same mountains that provide habitat for the giant panda. ‘Future conservation efforts need to incorporate consideration of viticulture,’ say the study’s authors. The study also looks at suggested adaptation measures such as vine orientation and trellising practices that can greatly reduce water demands.

Philippe Bascaules, director at Francis Ford Coppola’s Inglenook in Napa has been looking into various canopy management programmes to lower the sugar levels in the grapes. In 2012 he also held off irrigating until the end of growing season rather than the more usual period of July. ‘Long-term irrigation is not sustainable, and ideally we would like to stop it altogether. But so far we have found that smaller amounts of water at the end of the season helped keep the grapes from over-concentrating and so meant lower alcohol in the final wine’, Bascaules told Decanter.com. ‘It’s an experiment right now, seeing which parameters work best’. Written by Jane Anson Reviews The Maipo Valley is located within the Metropolitan Region, which includes Santiago, the capital of Chile. The eastern sector of the valley, close to the Andes, is known as Maipo Alto, the most esteemed place for the development of the vine. And this is where our Quinta de Maipo vineyard is located. The climate conditions at the Quinta de Maipo vineyard are very unique due its located at a point that is equidistant between the Andes Mountains and the coast.

The influences of both converge and create a regime of cool winds and unique temperatures. These fluctuate between a minimum of 10°C and maximum of 23°C in annual average. The Maipo River shapes the geography, and for thousands of years it has dragged rocks down from the Andes into the valley and deposited them as stones and sand to form rocky soils with good drainage and low fertility. Important Info For more information please call us at +297 5823950 or email us at [email protected] . Fill in the form below and we will contact you as soon as possible. Name * Chilean Wine Appellations 101 Chilean Wine Appellations 101 Tweet by Liz Caskey on August 29, 2013 We have been talking about Chile’s amazing wine diversity for a while now so I thought it was high time to do a short but sweet blog post outlining the major valleys in the Central Valley of Chile. The wine-growing region in Chile extends over 1,000 kilometers from the 30th to 38th latitudes.

While certainly there are grapes being grown up in the Chile Chico, the desert region of Limarí and Elqui, and farther to the south in Malleco or BíoBío, for the focus of this particular post, I wanted to concentrate on the Mediterranean Central Valley. From Santiago alone, driving in different directions, you can jump off to six wine valleys in two hours or less—a huge feat given the variety of the wines. It all has to do with geography. This is one mountainous country (70% or more is mountains). All those mountain folds, rivers, sediment and minerals, and fog from the ocean really do make a difference in the valleys, although distance-wise they are relatively close. These write-ups of the Valleys will orient you with broad stroke characteristics of climate, soil, and grape varieties given. Maybe a producer or town of a well known micro-appellations. While I won’t go deep into this post, Chile has changed in its winemaking and continues to do so at breakneck speed. This generation of winemakers is actively seeking out new terroirs, planting new grapes, experimenting.

Combined with the classical wineries that put some Chilean wines on the international map, this next generation is making wines that quicken the pulse and putting a lot of life into the wines—that really faithfully express the terroir . Aconcagua Valley: In the shadow of towering Mount Aconcagua, the tallest peak in South America, this valley is renowned for its red wines given the warm, dry climate. Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon are very happy campers here. The open valley receives ample, cool sea breezes from the nearby Pacific, and Mt. Aconcagua is visible with the naked eye on many days, even from the coast. This pequeño valley is centered around Panquehue where one of Chile’s flagship wineries, Errazúriz, is based. Here, shallow, stony soils with good drainage give birth to Cabernet Sauvginon, Merlot, Carmenere and Syrah. Recent plantings of vineyards closer to the ocean near Ocoa (an area known for its stunning Chilean palms), is producing tongue-tingling Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

We think that the coastal region here has lots of potential for growth as winemakers look for cooler temperatures and experiment with the limits of Pinot Noir. Casablanca Valley: In the 1980s, winemaker Pablo Morandé saw the uncanny similarities of this valley with Sonoma, California. At that time, it was most dairy farms and little water in the valley (there’s no river, only limited wells). Many considered him a loco to plant his grapes. He obviously had the last laugh as today Casablanca, lying west of the coastal range, has some of Chile’s best cool-climate growing conditions. This valley is responsible for producing vibrant, fresh Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and reds like Pinot Noir and the “cool weather” Syrah with its peppery, blackberry note, a departure from the Syrah of hotter inland valleys. The soils in Casablanca vary from granitic to clay and sandy soils. One thing that is incredibly important about this valley is the moderating effect of the Pacific Ocean who shrouds the valley in thick-as-pea-soup fog many mornings.

This protective layer allows these delicate, cool weather grapes to thrive and maintain zesty acidity. The only downside? Frost can be an issue during bud break in October. As you drive through the valley you see the fans (that are really heaters) strategically placed to circulate warmer air on those frigid mornings. San Antonio Valley: Many people tend to cluster San Antonio as an extension of Casablanca but it is really its own wine valley with considerably different characteristics than Casablanca. While adjacent, geographically speaking, San Antonio is a new valley with a handful of top rate, boutique wineries making. In my opinion, this valley is producing some of the most exciting wines in Chile right now. Here, the cold Humboldt Current is clearly evidenced by the chilly breezes blowing off the ocean and long, cool summers allowing grapes to ripen every so slowly while developing concentrated, intense flavors. Two buzz words for this valley: high acid, low pH. There is a crispness and unique expression to these wines that is so palatable it literally jumps out of the glass and bites your nostrils in a tasting. Here you’ll find pioneers and references like Casa Marin, Matetic, and Garcés Silva who call this valley home.

The golden grapes here are Sauvignon Blanc , Chardonnay and even lesser known varietals like Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Pinot Noir and Syrah have also adapted incredibly well with fruity, earthy expressions. Maipo Valley: Due south of Santiago, the traditional heart of Chilean winemaking has its roots firmly established in the first generation of serious wines, made from plantings brought back from Europe by the aristocratic class at that time. Names like Concha y Toro, Cousiño Macul, and Santa Rita all have grand estates from their prosperous past. The Maipo is actually divided into the “high” Maipo, closest to the Andes, and the “Isla del Maipo”, an island formed by the Maipo River. For intensive purposes of this post, we’ll focus on the high Maipo which is the Andean piedmont and where the finest wines are made due to the cooler temperatures and greater thermic oscillation. Most of the vines are planted around the country villages of Alto Jahuel, Buin, Pirque, and Puente Alto (which has now been engulfed by Santiago). When you think of this area, it should be benchmark Cabernet Sauvignon .

In fact, in Puente Alto where Almaviva is located, it is surrounded by prestigious neighbors like Concha y Toro’s Don Melchor and Errazuriz’s Chadwick vines. Why? This terroir is esteemed among the finest in the world for Cab. And Maipo Cabernet most definitely has a distinct flavor. The berries are tiny, dense, and filled with aromas are of deep cassis (black currant). There’s an herbaceous note that many say come from the eucalyptus trees in the valley and oils “suspended” in the air. The wines are fresh, elegant, balanced with silky tannins.In blind tastings, these Cabs, or their, just call to you. There’s a reason some of the big wine guns like Almaviva, Domus Aurea, Don Melchor, Chadwick, and others all hail from this valley. Cachapoal Valley: This newish valley used to be part of what was once called Rapel, named after the Rapel lake and also included Colchagua.

Now separated from Colchagua, this nearly all red wine district extends from the cool foothills of the Andes towards Route 66, known as the Ruta de la Fruta varying from shallow rocky slopes to fertile alluvial soils ideal for Carmenere. Here in Peumo, is arguably some of the best Carmenere terroir in Chile (here Concha y Toro’s distinguished Carmin & Terrunyo grapes are born). That being said, Cabernet Sauvignon is the name of the game here, with particularly velvety tannins and nice acid in Requinoa, which is in the foothills with grand cru projects in its folds. Near Rancagua, high in the Andes, innovative vintners are blazing trails making high altitude Chardonnay with its own unique expression, undaunted by winter snowfall. There’s also a smattering of Merlot near Rengo, hotter and lower in altitude. While Cachapoal does not have the caché of the Maipo or Colchagua yet, it’s one valley to watch.

Colchagua Valley: Without doubt, Colchagua could be the Chilean wine valley that has gotten the most traction abroad from a name brand stand point, and certainly with wine tourism. Many have done the valley a disservice of constantly comparing it as Chile’s “Napa” because of the higher concentration of wineries and some similarities in climate to its Californian cuisine. Colchagua, however, has a very different, more rustic feel than Napa and thankfully can hold its own. The valley follows the Tinguiririca River from the Andes to the Pacific, flanked by several extensions of the coastal mountains with tall hills. It’s essentially a wide corridor with hills for growing vines on the flat and hillsides. The terrain is quite varied with loamy, fertile soils close to the River and shallow, rocky gravel and even granite on the hillsides. Colchagua is very hot in the summer time but a consistent cool breeze from the Pacific, 50 miles as the crow flies, cools things off most afternoons around 4pm. By the evening, the mercury has plummeted again showing temperature spreads of over thirty degrees!

This scenarios is perfect for a slow ripening process and the long hang times Carmenere and Syrah demand. Inland Colchagua is predominantly red wine country dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenere, and Syrah made by a handful of top producers like Casa Lapostolle and Montes. There is development of a new terroir to the west near Lolol and Paredones championing white wines like Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc, leveraging the fog belt and heavily granitic soils. Pioneers like Casa Silva are leading the pack with these tongue-tingling whites that have people talking. We predict Colchagua Coast may be the next big “discovery” coming. Maule Valley: This is the southernmost part of the Central Valley. Here the Andes fade to west as the farmland opens with flat plains and low hills. This area is the largest wine-producing region in Chile as far as acreage is concerned, although much of the plantings are the rustic país grape brought by the Spanish used for simple table wine. Rainfall is slightly higher in this region, which has allowed many of the small, garage wineries cultivating old bush vine Carignan by exclusively dry farming to survive.

The Maule is an exciting area with a fervor of action happening in Carmenere, Carignan, Cabernet Franc, and blends. Many MOVI (independent vintners association) projects like Garage Wine Co. and our favorite, Gillmore, hail from this area and are really putting forth thoughtful, provocative wines that have identity. Keep your eyes peeled for the Maule, lots happening here.

Question: Maipo Valley is a wine-growing region in which country?
Answer: CHILE